Prior to today’s double header against the Atlanta Braves, Mickey Callaway said that Jason Vargas would be available out of the bullpen if need-be. Further, the Mets have activated flamethrower Gerson Bautista as the 26th man for today’s proceedings.
The 35 year-old Vargas has been bad to say the least so far this season, pitching to a 10.62 ERA and 6.50 FIP in five starts. In 20.1 innings he has allowed 34 hits, 10 walks, and six home runs. Callaway said Vargas volunteered to pitch out of the ‘pen as it’s his normal throwing day and he had a low pitch count in his last start.
While Bautista (22) hasn’t been particularly effective this season at the Major or minor league levels, he has great stuff and can be used as an innings-eater in a blowout. He’s appeared in just two MLB games, allowing two earned runs in 2.1 innings with two strikeouts, three hits, and four walks. He will likely head back to Triple-A after the completion of today’s double header.
